Draw gives Elitist chance to perform: Wood

Trainer Kelso Wood breathed a sigh of relief when smart two-year-old filly Elitist drew barrier three for her comeback run at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Elitist will meet a strong field of juveniles in the winningedge.net.au Handicap (1000m).

She was early favourite for the Magic Millions Classic last year but failed to qualify for the race after being hampered by outside barriers at her two race starts.

Wood said punters had yet to see the best of Elitist who will resume without an official trial.

“Elitist did a left-hand turn at the start at her first run when she was drawn on the outside of the field. But she still ran third,” Wood said.

“Then she was never on the track from another outside alley at her only other start in the Calaway Gal Stakes when midfield.

“Yes, you can say I was happy when she drew three on Saturday.”

Wood did warn Elitist was being set for bigger races but he still expects her to race well.

“At least we will get a chance to see how she goes from a decent barrier,” he said.

Elitist has banked a meagre $5000 in prize money and Wood realises she will have to start performing if she is to contest races such as the Group Two BRC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1350m) at Doomben on May 24.

Wood’s apprentice Kirk Matheson will take over from senior jockey Chris Munce.

“The owners are happy to give Kirk a go. He has been riding well and chances for apprentices dry up for the next few months with the carnival,” Wood said.

Elitist is raced by the wives of the connections of former star galloper Sizzling who won completed the BRC Sires’ and JJ Atkins Stakes double in 2012.

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